Tag Archives for AARP Fraud Watch Network

Free AARP Rhode Island Opportunities for Older Rhode Islanders

Published in RINewsToday on March 23, 2026

AARP Rhode Island—one of 53 AARP state and territory offices serving all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands—works to improve the quality of life for older Rhode Islanders. The organization promotes positive social change and delivers value to more than 125,000 members through information, advocacy, and service.

Alongside their national headquarters in Washington, D.C., AARP’s nonprofit state offices lead community engagement, advocacy, and educational programming at the local level. As the state’s largest aging advocacy organization, AARP Rhode Island represents its members on key issues, including Social Security taxes, healthcare, and long-term care.

AARP’s advocacy efforts helped secure passage of the Rhode Island Secure Choice Retirement Savings Program and last year’s legislation to regulate crypto ATM kiosks. The organization is now pushing to eliminate the state tax on Social Security and continues to support the state’s more than 121,000 family caregivers.

Fighting fraud is a particular AARP focus year-round, but especially in April and May. In 2024, according to the Federal Trade Commission, Rhode Island consumers reported more than 11,776 fraud cases, resulting in an alarming $20.7 million in losses. Consequently, AARP Rhode Island is taking the fight into Ocean State communities.

“Fraud prevention is about action,” said AARP Rhode Island State Director Catherine Taylor – “When AARP shows up in communities with trusted tools and local workshops, we’re helping neighbors protect themselves and each other. We’re delighted to partner with the East Side/Mount Hope YMCA and the Cranston YMCA to address this escalating threat.”

Also in response, AARP Rhode Island will host a free “Fraud Fighting Fridays” document-shredding event, in Providence at the A. Vincent Igliozzi Recreation Center, 675 Plainfield Street, on Friday, April 10, from 9 a.m. to noon. This is the first of nine drive-thru drop-off workshops scheduled statewide through June. Registration and details are available at www.aarp.org/RIEvents.

Also – mark your calendar for the upcoming three free presentations from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the East Side/Mount Hope YMCA (Meeting Room), 438 Hope Street, Providence.

April 8, 2026
Topic: Fraud Basics — The Scam Landscape & Staying Safe

In 2024, Rhode Island recorded 11,776 fraud reports to the Federal Trade Commission. That same year, there were approximately 2,896 identity theft cases in the Ocean State, which consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for identity theft per capita. According to AARP Rhode Island, the AARP Fraud Watch Network is helping empower older adults to fight back against scams by providing trusted tools and resources to recognize, avoid, and report fraud.

At this workshop, you’ll learn about the latest fraud trends, along with practical tips and resources to help protect yourself and your family. With just a few simple steps, you can reduce your risk and take control. Volunteer instructors will highlight common scams, explain how to spot red flags, and break down the tactics scammers use to target individuals. You’ll also learn what to do if you encounter fraud and where to turn for help—so you can better protect yourself and your loved ones.

April 15, 2026
Topic: Government Impostor Scams

According to the Federal Trade Commission, in 2024, adults aged 60 and older reported losing millions of dollars to scammers posing as representatives of trusted government agencies and businesses. Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their efforts to steal your money and personal information—often by pretending to be someone they’re not, says AARP Rhode Island. At this workshop, you’ll learn what government impostor scams are and the tactics scammers use to target victims. You’ll also receive practical tips on how to spot these scams and access resources to help protect yourself.

April 22, 2026
Topic: Vigilance Against Cybercrime

According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, approximately 1,642 Rhode Islanders were victims of cybercrime in 2025. However, the true number is likely much higher, as many incidents go unreported. In today’s fast-moving digital world, AARP Rhode Island emphasizes that safeguarding your personal information is more important than ever. Whether you’re in public, at home, shopping online, using social media, or managing your finances, this workshop will provide practical guidance to help you stay safe and secure. You’ll learn how to recognize the latest scams, protect your digital identity, and take control of your online safety.

Another three workshops, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., will be held at the Cranston YMCA, 1225 Park Avenue, Cranston

April 28, 2026
Topic: Government Impostor Scams

This workshop, similar to the one held earlier in Providence, will explain what government impostor scams are and detail the tactics scammers use to target victims. You’ll also learn practical tips on how to spot these scams and access resources to help protect yourself.

May 5, 2026
Topic: Downsizing and Decluttering

Let AARP Rhode Island show you how to simplify and declutter your life. If you’re looking to clear out items accumulated over the years, join this free workshop to learn practical organizing strategies. During this one-hour session, you’ll learn how to begin your decluttering journey and how better organization can positively impact your daily life.

May 12, 2026
Topic: Understanding Social Security

Learn the ABCs of Social Security and gain a clearer understanding of how this vital retirement program works. Instructors will share information and resources to help you make informed decisions about when to claim your benefits. The workshop will explain the differences between full, early, and delayed retirement benefits, as well as spousal and survivor benefits. It will also touch on ongoing efforts in Congress to ensure the program’s long-term financial stability.To register for these workshops, go to AARP Rhode Island Upcoming Events.

 Herb Weiss, LRI, 12, is a Pawtucket-based writer who has covered aging, healthcare, and medical issues for more than 45 years. To purchase his books, Taking Charge: Collected Stories on Aging Boldly and its two sequels, visit herbweiss.com.

Congress Moves on a National Anti-Scam Strategy to Protect Older Adults

Published in RINewsToday on December 8, 2025

Last month, the AARP, recognizing that the holiday season leading up to Christmas is widely viewed as “prime time” for scams targeting older Americans, released findings from its 2025 Holiday Shopping and Scams Survey. According to the AARP Fraud Watch Network, fraud aimed at online shoppers and holiday donors continues to skyrocket.

With Christmas fast approaching, millions of Americans are preparing to shop and give online. The Survey, released just nine days before Thanksgiving, reveals that a majority of U.S. adults (89%) have encountered at least one scam. These include fake notifications about shipment issues (55%), phony charity appeals (35%), misleading digital ads (39%), and even the physical theft of packages from porches (30%). More than half of adults said they received a fake shipping notice this year, while nearly four in ten encountered deceptive ads on social media.

“Criminals are relentless during the holidays, exploiting the many opportunities that come with a busy season—from shopping and traveling to charitable giving,” said Kathy Stokes, Director of Fraud Prevention Programs at the AARP Fraud Watch Network, in a Nov. 18 statement.  “Understanding how they operate is the first step toward protecting yourself and your loved ones,” she says.

Although online scams continue to rise, many consumers still prefer using debit cards—even though recouping funds taken from a victim’s bank account often takes far longer than resolving a disputed credit card charge. Still, the report shows that safer payment habits are gaining ground.

While 72% of consumers plan to use a debit card this year, credit card use is up significantly from 2024 (64%), with nearly seven in ten planning to use a credit card during the upcoming holiday season.

The survey also found that 64% of consumers who plan to purchase gift cards this season expect to buy them off the rack at retail stores, such as grocery stores or pharmacies. This continues to be a major vulnerability: 33% of U.S. adults reported giving or receiving a gift card with no balance. Fraudsters often record the card number, expose and reseal the PIN, then wait for activation before draining the funds.

Consumers are increasingly targeted through peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps as well, with two in five users reporting that they have sent money to someone they did not know. Despite growing awareness, many people still underestimate the risks of using debit cards or fail to verify charitable organizations before donating.

New Federal Plan Aims to Protect Seniors

AARP’s survey found that 92% of respondents—across liberal, moderate, and conservative viewpoints—want Congress to do more to protect older adults from fraud. And Congress appears to be listening.

Last week, U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), ranking member of the Senate Aging Committee, held a Dec. 4 virtual press conference announcing the introduction of S. 3355, National Strategy for Combating Scams Act of 2025, legislation aimed at providing stronger safeguards for seniors this holiday season and beyond. This bill was referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee.  Gillibrand warned that financial scams, which cost Americans more than $16 billion last year, disproportionately harm older adults.

Throughout the event, Gillibrand underscored the economic hardship caused when older adults lose money to fraud. She noted the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, which is enabling scammers to create more sophisticated and “hyper-realistic imposter scams” that require immediate government action.

Senate cosponsors include Sens. Rick Scott (R-FL), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Ashley Moody (R-FL). H.R. 6425, companion legislation is being led in the House by Reps. Gabe Amo (D-RI) and Derek Schmidt (R-KS).  Hopefully, we’ll see Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-RI) join Rep. Eleanor Homes Del Norton (D-District of Columbia) and Rep. Sarah McBride (D-DE) as cosponsors.

According to Gillibrand, more than four in ten Americans say they have lost money to scams or had their sensitive information stolen. Older adults account for an estimated 30% of financial losses, with an average loss of $83,000 per incident. Gillibrand shared the story of a 75-year-old man who received up to five scam calls each day and a senior woman who lost $39,000.

The Government Accountability Office (GAO), often referred to as Congress’s watchdog, recently identified at least 13 federal agencies conducting anti-scam efforts, each working independently under different mandates. GAO recommended that the FBI take the lead in establishing a unified National Strategy for Combating Scams. Gillibrand’s bill would give the FBI a legal obligation to implement that framework.

During the press conference, Gillibrand also addressed underreporting, noting that many victims—like her own aunt who lost $5,000 to a scammer impersonating an FBI agent—feel too embarrassed to tell family members or law enforcement. She shared the story in response to a question from Brian O’Neill, host of Newsmaker on WLEA Radio, underscoring how shame and secrecy allow scammers to continue exploiting vulnerable individuals.

“I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan National Strategy for Combating Scams Act to help make sure seniors don’t get scrooged this holiday season,” said Gillibrand. “It’s clear that we need a coordinated national strategy to tackle the increasingly sophisticated scams targeting our seniors, and this legislation would bring that to fruition. I look forward to working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get this vital bill across the finish line.”

Sen.Rick Scott (R-FL), chair of the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, added: “Families across the country are being hammered by increasingly sophisticated scams, and Washington has been far too slow to respond. This bipartisan effort finally brings federal agencies together, cuts duplication, and creates a real national plan to protect seniors and hardworking Americans.

AARP, which represents 125 million adults age 50 and over, strongly endorses the National Strategy for Combating Scams Act of 2025. “The strategy encourages smarter use of technology, better data collection, and stronger partnerships with banks, tech companies, and law enforcement to help prevent scams and support victims. And it prioritizes making resources easier to access, providing more effective recovery for those who’ve been targeted,” says AARP’s Jennifer Jones, vice president of Financial Security & Livable Communities, Government Affairs.

House Considers Companion Anti-Scam Bill

On the House side, Rep. Amo introduces a companion measure (H.R. 6425). “Too many Rhode Islanders have been taken for a ride by scammers skimming their pockets and stealing their hard-earned money, leaving many devastated and destitute,” he said. “I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan National Strategy for Combating Scams Act to ensure we are addressing the rising scam threat in a coordinated and strategic manner.”

According to the FBI, Rhode Islanders lost $6,309,411 to senior fraud in 2024 alone. Earlier this year, Amo launched the bipartisan Stop Scams Caucus to combat financial fraud, cyber scams, and cross-border criminal networks. In Rhode Island, he also convened a roundtable discussion at the Middletown Senior Center focused on scam prevention.

The National Strategy for Combating Scams Act is endorsed by a broad coalition of national organizations, including AARP, Aspen Institute Financial Security Program, Chamber of Progress, Global Anti-Scam Alliance, Justice in Aging, the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA), National Association of Social Workers, National Asian Pacific Center on Aging, National Caucus and Center on Black Aging, National Sheriffs’ Association, Stop Scams Alliance, and many others.

To view AARP’s holiday scam report, go to https://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/research/topics/work-finances-retirement/fraud-consumer-protection/holiday-shopping-scams-2025.doi.10.26419-2fres.00992.001.pdf

Protecting your hard earned money from Holiday scammers 

Published in RINewsToday on December 18, 2023

f the Christmas holidays and consumers ramping up their holiday shopping, the Washington, DC AARP warns shoppers to be aware of the uptick of scams. A new 2023 AARP Fraud Watch NetworkTM report puts the spotlight on how criminals target consumers during the holiday season.  

According to the report, 80% of U.S. consumers say that they have experienced some type of fraud in 2023 – many occurring during holiday shopping season.  The researchers say that these scams have increased from last year’s report, from receiving fake notifications about shipments, to online ad scams, and more.

“The concerning findings from our annual survey are that fraud is on the rise and that knowledge about how to stay safe from fraud is dropping,” said Kathy Stokes, AARP Director of Fraud Prevention Programs in a December press release announcing this year’s findings. “Education plays an important role in combating fraud, but we can’t educate our way out of what is now a rampant issue,” she said.

AARP’s report noted that in 2023 significantly more consumers plan on shopping online compared to the last two years. With this increase in internet shopping, scammers often place fake ads online and across popular social media sites offering steep discounts on the hottest items. 

Although peer-to-peer payment platforms such as Venmo, PayPal, Square Cash, and Zelle, etc. have been around for awhile, they have become increasingly popular as a way to make online payments to businesses. Consumers turn to these platforms for convenience, speed and security.  

According to AARP’s findings, the use of these services have increased significantly for a second year in a row. A large majority of respondents shared they do business those, or similar, apps – such as sending money to businesses they have no previous relationship with. In the unfortunate event of fraud, these apps provide little protection to scammed consumers, warns the report.

Gift cards continue to be popular gifts, 66% of those surveyed planning to purchase them this holiday season. However, 27% of consumers have experienced either giving or receiving a gift card with no monetary value on it. “Criminals have old-school ways of manipulating cards hanging on retail racks and high-tech ways of searching online for cards with balances and draining them,” says AARP’s Stokes. “It may be safest to purchase a gift card directly from the card issuer’s website,” she notes.

In a 10-question fraud knowledge quiz that was again part of this year’s AARP survey, most respondents failed with only 28% of being able to answer only 7 or more questions correctly.   The quiz results call for the need to make consumers aware that retailers will never request your login information to provide customer support.  

AARP’s recently released report suggests: 

It’s better to use credit cards for purchasing gifts because they offer the most consumer protections of any payment method.

It’s important to regularly accept some upgrade prompts for your devices because these updates are to patch known fraud vulnerabilities.

It’s risky to do a web search for a company’s customer support network because criminals buy ads impersonating those companies. Check billing and credit card statements for customer service, use the number on the back of your credit cards, or go directly to the company by typing in their web address, like www.aarp.org.

AARP Rhode Island – Fighting Fraudsters

“AARP Rhode Island works hard every day to make sure that Rhode Islanders have all the information they need to protect themselves and their families from scams, especially around the holidays,” said AARP Rhode Island State Director Catherine Taylor. “We hold regular fraud-prevention tele-town halls, our Speakers Bureau volunteers give free Fraud Watch presentations to audiences across the state, and we fight fraud via AARP’s Fraud Watch network (www.aarp.org/fraudwatch), which provides vital information and scam alerts. Anyone can subscribe for free,” she says.

“Last summer, AARP Rhode Island held free document shredding events around the state where more than 900 people dropped off nine tons of documents,” Taylor added. “And we are so pleased that the General Assembly passed our bill to address gift card fraud this year. Retailers are now required to post warnings to consumers that it is always a scam if someone asks you to buy a gift care to pay a bill or fee.  If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam,” she says.

Approaching holidays gives more opportunities for deception says RI Attorney General

“The best way Rhode Islanders can avoid falling victim to a scam during the holiday season, and year-round, is to stay vigilant and stay educated,” said Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha. “Scammers are becoming more and more sophisticated in the way they target their victims, and the holidays provide new opportunities for deception. Rhode Islanders can and should call our office or visit our website for advice and information if they are faced with a possible scam situation.”

Watch out for text or phone scams that appear to be from UPS, FedEx, or other mail services, warns the AG’s Consumer Unit. This can be as simple as a text message stating that UPS tried to deliver a package, but was unable to do so, or as deceptive as a phone call telling a consumer they will not receive their package unless they pay money in cash or gift cards. Consumers should not click on any links they receive via text message or Facebook message from numbers they do not know.

The AG’s Consumer Unit says that paying by credit card gives consumers more protection than other forms of payment. The payment apps mentioned (Cash App, Zelle, PayPal, etc.) cannot offer the same level of protection as paying by credit card. Gifts cards and cash payments are a red flag that a consumer may be the victim or potential victim of a scammer. Do not buy from individuals who request payment outside of a trusted online marketplace’s payment system.

Always do your own research.  A consumer may be able to quickly determine whether they are being targeted by scammer from a simple online search including keywords and “scam” or “complaint.” User feedback on the Better Business Bureau website may also help consumers identify whether the company they are interacting with is legitimate or fraudulent, says the AG’s Consumer Unit.  

Before spending hard-earned money on an opportunity, good, or service that may be a scam, consumers can reach out to our Consumer Unit with questions or concerns at (401) 274-4400 (prompt 1). An investigator or attorney will get back in touch as soon as possible. Alternatively, consumers may file a complaint online at http://riag.ri.gov/forms/consumer-complaint.

To read the full 2023 AARP Fraud Watch Network Report and learn more visit: www.aarp.org/holidayscams2023

Additional Resources:

Finally, AARP Fraud Watch NetworkTM is a free resource that equips consumers with up-to-date knowledge to spot and avoid scams, and connects those targeted by scams with our fraud helpline specialists who provide support and guidance on what to do next. Anyone can call the helpline at 877-908-3360. AARP Fraud Watch NetworkTM also offers free, facilitated peer discussion groups that seek to provide emotional support for those experiencing fraud; and advocates at the federal, state, and local levels to enact policy changes that protect consumers and enforce laws.

For a copy of the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, “Fighting Fraud: Top Scams in 2023, go to https://www.aging.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/fraud_book_2023__english.pdf.